A model and a finite element approximation of the mixed-dimensionality diffusion problem

Abstract

We present the formulation of a boundary value problem that models the coupled behavior of a three-dimensional diffusive solid with one-dimensional diffusive fibers embedded inside it. We introduce a variational statement of the problem that identifies the linked diffusive fields as energy minimizers under a coupling constraint. This saddle-point problem is proved to be well posed. Then, we introduce a finite element discretization of the proposed boundary value problem, and we prove the convergence of the finite element solution to the exact one. The most significant feature of this approximation is that the meshes of the bodies need not be conforming. Numerical examples confirm the theoretical results